Scented geraniums, members of the Pelargonium genus, are distinct from true geraniums (Geranium genus) and are primarily cultivated for their aromatic foliage rather than their small, often inconspicuous flowers. Their captivating fragrances come from essential oils in glands at the base of their leaf hairs; merely touching or bruising the leaves releases these delightful aromas. These plants have been cherished in gardens and homes for centuries, gaining popularity during Victorian times.
Exploring Scented Geranium Varieties
Scented geraniums offer a wide array of aromatic profiles, categorized by their distinct scents. Rose-scented varieties, such as ‘Attar of Roses’ or ‘Variegated Rose’ (Pelargonium graveolens ‘Variegata’), feature lacy or deeply lobed leaves and emit a classic rose fragrance. Lemon-scented types, like ‘Mabel Grey’ or ‘Prince Rupert’, often have finely divided foliage and release a crisp citrus aroma. Mint-scented geraniums, including ‘Peppermint’ or ‘Chocolate Mint’ (Pelargonium tomentosum ‘Chocolate Peppermint’), can have velvety leaves and offer a refreshing, sometimes chocolatey, minty scent.
Spice-scented varieties, such as ‘Nutmeg’ or ‘Cinnamon’, provide warm, inviting fragrances and often have smaller, rounded leaves. Fruit-scented options like ‘Apple’ or ‘Apricot’ offer sweet, fruity notes, while pungent varieties might carry a pine or camphor scent, for example, ‘Fernleaf’ (Pelargonium denticulatum ‘Filicifolium’) with its piney aroma. Each variety offers a unique scent, distinct leaf shapes, textures, and colors, adding to their ornamental value.
Scented Geranium Care
Light Needs
Scented geraniums thrive in ample sunlight, requiring at least four to six hours of direct sun daily for strong growth and optimal scent production. In regions with intense summer heat, providing some afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorch. Insufficient light often leads to leggy growth and can diminish the plant’s fragrance. For indoor cultivation, placing plants in a south or west-facing window provides the necessary bright light.
Watering
These plants are somewhat drought-tolerant and prefer their soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, causing leaves to yellow and drop. Water deeply when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, ensuring excess water drains. Watering at the base of the plant rather than overhead helps prevent fungal diseases, especially in humid conditions.
Soil Requirements
Scented geraniums prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of approximately 5.8 to 6.5. A good potting mix, often peat-based, works well to promote aeration and drainage. When planting in the garden, amending heavy clay soils with organic matter like compost or sand can improve drainage. Leaner soil can sometimes enhance the fragrance of the leaves.
Temperature and Humidity
Scented geraniums are tender perennials, grown as annuals in regions colder than USDA Zones 10-11 due to their intolerance of freezing temperatures. They prefer warm days, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C), and cooler nights, around 50-60°F (10-16°C). While they tolerate hot, dry conditions, good air circulation is beneficial in humid environments to prevent fungal issues. If temperatures consistently drop below 45°F (7°C), bring potted plants indoors.
Fertilizing
Scented geraniums are not heavy feeders; excessive fertilization can dilute their fragrance or cause leggy growth. For potted plants, a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied every three to four weeks during the growing season. In-ground plants require less frequent feeding. Fertilizing should be reduced or stopped entirely during the winter months when the plant’s growth slows.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning maintains a bushy shape and encourages continuous new growth, leading to more fragrant foliage. Pinching back stem tips promotes a fuller plant. Leggy growth can be cut back in early spring or late winter. Deadheading spent flowers redirects the plant’s energy towards foliage production. Removing dead or yellowing leaves also improves air circulation and overall plant health.
Using Scented Geraniums
Scented geraniums offer diverse applications beyond their ornamental appeal, primarily through their aromatic leaves. In culinary arts, their leaves infuse flavors into dishes like desserts, jellies, sugars, and beverages. Rose, lemon, mint, and apple-scented varieties are popular for cooking; for example, rose geranium leaves can line a cake pan, or mint leaves can be steeped in tea. The leaves are removed before consumption, as they impart flavor during infusion.
Beyond the kitchen, scented geraniums contribute to aromatherapy and crafts. Their dried leaves are excellent additions to potpourri and sachets, providing long-lasting natural fragrances. Fresh leaves can also be incorporated into floral arrangements for added scent and texture. While sometimes mentioned as natural insect repellents, their primary value is their aromatic qualities for enjoyment and creative uses.
Propagating Scented Geraniums
Propagating scented geraniums through stem cuttings is a straightforward and effective method. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem, approximately 4-6 inches long. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node using sharp, sterile shears or a knife. Remove all leaves from the lower two-thirds of the cutting, leaving at least two leaves at the top.
Allow the cut end to air dry and callus for a few hours or overnight to prevent rot. Rooting hormone can enhance success rates. Plant the cutting into a small pot with moist, well-draining potting mix, burying the lower nodes. Alternatively, root cuttings in water, changing it every few days until roots appear. Place pots in a warm, bright location, maintaining consistent soil moisture. Roots typically develop within 3-4 weeks.
Common Scented Geranium Issues
Scented geraniums are robust plants, but they can experience a few common problems. Leggy growth indicates insufficient light and can be corrected by moving the plant to a brighter location. Yellowing leaves often signal overwatering or a nutrient deficiency, requiring watering schedule adjustment. If leaves turn brown and crispy, it might be due to underwatering or sunburn.
Pests such as whiteflies and spider mites can affect scented geraniums. Whiteflies congregate on leaf undersides and can be managed with insecticidal soap or by washing them off. Fungal diseases like botrytis blight or root rot result from overwatering, poor air circulation, or overly wet soil. Ensuring proper spacing between plants and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent these issues.